Straight answers about floors.
The questions BC homeowners ask most, answered plainly: choosing a floor, getting ready, condos, stairs and costs.
Call Brody at 604-716-4160 · see our projects
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Choosing a floor.
Engineered or solid hardwood?
Engineered hardwood has a layered construction and may suit concrete subfloors or radiant heat when the product is approved for that use. Solid hardwood offers a substantial wood surface for future refinishing. We match the product and installation method to your subfloor and home.
Is luxury vinyl plank really waterproof?
Many vinyl planks have waterproof cores, but that does not make the entire room waterproof. Water can still reach the subfloor at edges or penetrations. Follow the specific product’s installation and spill-cleanup instructions.
Is laminate OK in a kitchen?
A water-resistant laminate approved for kitchens can be a practical choice. Spill limits, edge sealing and cleanup requirements vary by product, so we check those details before you choose.
What's the best floor for dogs?
Quality laminate and vinyl plank can both suit homes with dogs. Compare the specific product’s scratch resistance, water protection and warranty. In wood, a matte, textured finish can make everyday marks less noticeable.
Can hardwood go in a basement?
Some engineered hardwood is approved for below-grade use, subject to moisture testing, the installation system and the manufacturer’s requirements. Solid hardwood is generally not recommended below grade.
Before the install.
How flat does my subfloor need to be?
A common flatness target is 3/16 inch over 10 feet, but some products require tighter tolerances. We follow your flooring manufacturer’s specification and prepare high and low areas with suitable grinding, primer and levelling materials.
How long does new flooring need to acclimate?
Acclimation depends on the product and the conditions in your home. We check the flooring and subfloor moisture where required, keep the room at normal living conditions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions rather than a fixed number of days.
Can hardwood go over in-floor heating?
Only use a wood floor and installation system approved for your heating system. We check the manufacturer’s temperature limits, moisture requirements and startup instructions before recommending a product.
My house was built before 1990. Do I need a test?
If old vinyl, tile or adhesive will be disturbed, yes. See older homes.
Do I need a permit to replace flooring?
Usually not for like-for-like replacement. Structural or stair rebuilds can need one. Check with your municipality.
Condos, stairs and costs.
What sound rating does my strata require?
It depends on your bylaws. IIC 55 for the whole assembly is common. See our strata guide.
Can carpeted stairs be converted to hardwood?
Yes. See carpet to hardwood stairs.
Can engineered hardwood be refinished?
Sometimes. It depends on the remaining wood above the tongue, the product’s construction and any previous sanding. The floor needs to be assessed before promising a full sanding; a maintenance recoat may be a different option.
Is PST charged on flooring installation in BC?
For a typical supply-and-install contract that becomes part of the home, the contractor pays PST on the materials rather than adding PST to the installation service. Materials-only sales and some agreements are treated differently. Your written quote shows the applicable taxes.
Does the manufacturer's warranty cover installation?
Product and workmanship coverage are different. Manufacturer warranties describe their product coverage and exclusions; our separate 2-year workmanship guarantee covers our installation work under its terms.
Still have a question?
Rooms, rough size and the floor you have in mind. Brody will follow up to arrange a free measure, usually within 2 days.
Prefer to talk? 604-716-4160 · [email protected]
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